Create a Layered Window Treatment

March 19, 2012

Whether they are dainty wood blinds or over-the-top dramatic drapery panels, something is needed on every window! And without, it’s like going to a party wearing a gorgeous dress and jewelry, but forgetting your shoes. That being said, I’m also a big fan of layering window treatments which means having a combination of functional parts and pretty parts. By adding different layers, the window(s) will have added depth and dimension, plus offer energy efficiency and privacy. To begin, ask yourself a few questions which will help determine the type and amount of layers that you want and need for your window(s).

Here are some suggestions:

Desire privacy for your space? If so, you may want to consider something that can is functional and can open & close.

Desire complete darkness in your space? If so, you may want to consider black out shades.

Desire texture, color, and height? If so, you might consider long drapery panels that are hung high close to the ceiling, plus a bamboo shades.

These are MANY options and those are just a few questions to start the process in deciding what’s right for your situation. Let’s move on and discuss layering window treatments.

Aesthetics Only (Layer 1)

In many rooms of the home there may be no need for privacy, so a window treatment for an aesthetically pleasing look will be just enough. Window treatment ideas could include:

Long drapery panels that are stationary

Roman Shade that is stationary

Cornice or Valance (above the window)

The following images show examples of window treatments that are one layer and for mere aesthetic purposes only.

Privacy (Layer 2)

There are different degrees of privacy that you may want to achieve from your window treatments. You may still desire some light, so a light filtering shade may be the solution in a kitchen or living room, but a shade that completely blocks the light (and your naked silhouette) is better for a bathroom or bedroom. Window Treatments for privacy include:

Long drapery panels that are functional and can be pulled across the window (consider blackout lining and/or insulated interlining)

Roman shade that is functional (some are light filtering that allow sunlight into the space, while others can be completely room darkening and energy efficient)

Woven Wooden Shades (add texture to a space; some are light filtering and some are room darkening)

Roller Shades (inexpensive and can almost “disappear” when fully rolled up)

Real or Faux Wood Blinds (available in different wood tones which add comfort and character to a space)

Sheers (Layer 3)

This layer is optional and usually not needed, but in some cases may be. Depending on the window treatment design, you may want stationary panels (or a cornice), functional blinds or shades for room darkening / privacy, as well as a third layer for semi-privacy (perhaps for during the day hours). I actually had this scenario years ago when I lived in the city and my apartment faced a busy street. I obviously didn’t want people looking in, but I also wanted light to enter during the day, so the solution was to include a sheer in front of the functional blinds which I put down at night and darkened the room.

The following images show examples of window treatments that have three layers – a functional layer, a pretty layer, AND a sheer layer.

There are many different styles and designs for window treatments, but adding numerous layers truly makes a huge impact in a room. Imagine your window as a piece of artwork… It would look so blah and boring without the perfect frame to surround it.

Hi, I love the chartreuse damask fabric in the photo from Apartment Therapy, I love the window treatment and would like to recreate it, can you tell me who’s fabric this is or where on the website I could find the source?